By Staff Sgt. Noshoba Davis, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
NEW ORLEANS – Chief Warrant Officer 5 Dale Poe became the Louisiana National Guard’s ninth command chief warrant officer during a change of responsibility ceremony at Jackson Barracks in New Orleans, Oct. 18.
Poe succeeded Chief Warrant Officer 5 Robin Williams, who had served as the state command chief warrant officer since 2022.
During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Thomas C. Friloux, adjutant general of Louisiana, recognized Williams for his service and mentorship throughout the Louisiana National Guard, including mentoring hundreds of warrant officers during his career. Friloux also highlighted Williams’ work with leaders at home and abroad and wished him well in retirement.
“Dale, welcome to the command team and to the position,” said Friloux. “I look forward to working with you and seeing you continue the great work that Robin has done over the years.”
As command chief warrant officer, Poe serves as the adjutant general’s senior warrant officer adviser and provides guidance on the professional development, management and readiness of Louisiana National Guard warrant officers.
Poe, a Pineville, Louisiana, native, enlisted in 1989 as a Bradley Fighting Vehicle mechanic and became a warrant officer in 2003. During his career, he has served in numerous leadership and technical positions, including battalion and brigade maintenance technician, command maintenance evaluation team chief and directorate of logistics operations officer.
He also served as a senior ordnance ground maintenance officer at Joint Force Headquarters, where he played a role in modernizing training by designing and implementing initiatives for leaders throughout the organization.
“I recognize that I have big shoes to fill. I have been fortunate enough to learn from exceptional mentors. Their leadership, professionalism and commitment to this organization set a high standard,” said Poe. “If I can accomplish even half of what they have accomplished, I will consider my tenure a success.”
Williams was born in England, enlisted in the Louisiana National Guard in 1991 as a cannon crewmember and became a warrant officer in 2003.
“Don’t be hesitant to reach out and talk to…commanders about warrant officer issues and listen to their opinions,” said Williams. “Look after and protect the interests of the warrant officer corps and Protect What Matters.”